Augustine was born in Thagaste, in Roman North Africa, in 354, to a Christian mother, Monica, and spent much of his youth pursuing ambition, philosophy, and a life his mother prayed for years to see him leave behind. After years studying and teaching rhetoric, he experienced a dramatic conversion in Milan in 386, influenced by Bishop Ambrose and, by his own account, a moment of hearing a child's voice telling him to "take up and read" Scripture.
He was baptized, returned to North Africa, and became Bishop of Hippo, where he wrote extensively, including his autobiographical "Confessions" and "City of God." His theology on grace, sin, and the nature of the Church profoundly shaped Western Christianity, and he is honored as a Doctor of the Church.
Saint Augustine of Hippo
Bishop and Doctor of the Church
A bishop and theologian whose writings, including the "Confessions" and "City of God," shaped Western Christian thought for over a millennium.
- Born
- 354
- Died
- 430
- Birthplace
- Thagaste (in modern Algeria)
- Died in
- Hippo Regius (in modern Algeria)
- Country
- Algeria
- Century
- 4th century
Why People Pray to Saint Augustine of Hippo
Saint Augustine is invoked by those seeking conversion from a wayward life, by theologians and students, and by anyone struggling to reconcile faith and reason.
